Art History for Kids: Warli Painting

Warli painting is one of India’s oldest tribal art forms, created by the Warli community of Maharashtra. This art form came into wider public awareness only in the 1970s. It uses simple shapes–circles, triangles and lines–to tell stories of daily life, farming, festivals and nature. At first glance, Warli art may seem very basic. But within its minimal forms lies a deep understanding of life, balance and rhythm.

History Warli painting originates from the Warli tribe, residing in regions such as Palghar, Dahanu, Talasari and Jawhar in Maharashtra. The tradition is believed to be over 2,000 years old. It was traditionally created during important occasions such as weddings and harvest festivals. The paintings